David Moyes refused to blame his players(Image: Getty Images)

David Moyes refused to criticise his players after a terrible eight minutes threatened to destroy Everton’s hopes of qualifying for Europe.

The Blues were ahead, in control and looking likely to increase their lead against Bournemouth when they conceded two poor goals and had Jake O’Brien sent off in the second half.

It was a familiar story for Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where the club has failed to win since the beginning of December. And just like in several of those games, including the draw with Wolves and the chastening defeat to Brentford, the problems were largely self-inflicted.

OPINION

After the match, Moyes accepted it was like ‘Groundhog Day’ when the theme of recent home disappointments was put to him. But, while he said Everton only had themselves to blame, he stressed: “The players are doing a great job here, we just didn't have quite enough tonight.”

Asked how he could explain the miserable home form - which is in stark contrast to the stunning away form he has overseen this season...